[Risk of Developing Clinical Symptomatically Postmeniscectomy Bone Marrow Edema].

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Radiology
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Bone marrow edema (BME) in the knee is a common MRI finding with unclear correlations to joint disorders.
• Persistent postoperative pain after arthroscopic partial meniscectomy affects many patients.
• Understanding the link between BME and knee disorders is crucial for effective treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the correlation between postoperative knee disorders and BME detected via MRI.
• To identify potential therapeutic consequences based on the presence of BME.
• To evaluate the impact of BME on patient outcomes after meniscectomy.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study included 150 patients undergoing arthroscopic partial meniscectomy without prior BME.
• Postoperative care involved a short rest, early weight-bearing, and standard analgesia.
• Pain and function were assessed using IKDC and VAS scores, with MRI performed for persistent symptoms.

Main Results:

• 11 out of 150 patients (7.3%) developed symptomatic BME postoperatively.
• Symptomatic BME showed a significant correlation with women over 70 years old.
• Patients with BME had significantly higher VAS pain scores and lower IKDC function scores compared to asymptomatic patients.

Conclusions:

• Clinical symptomatic BME is associated with worse pain and functional outcomes post-surgery.
• A prompt MRI is recommended for patients experiencing postoperative knee discomfort.
• Identifying BME via MRI can inform modifications in therapeutic strategies for improved patient recovery.